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10 Best Handheld Vacuums 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Shark | Pet Cordless Vacuum Cleaner | LED Headlights | Removable Handheld Vacuum for Pet Hair | Crevice Tool & Pet Multi-Tool Included | 40min Runtime | For Carpet & Hard Floors | Grey | IX141

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,219
Suction Power
Battery Life
Weight

Most important from
33956 reviews

Suction Power
The suction power is impressive, especially on high mode, effectively picking up dirt, lint, and pet hair from carpets and mats.
Battery Life
Battery life is better than expected, even on high suction mode, making it suitable for multiple cleaning tasks before needing a recharge.
Weight
It's lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it convenient for quick clean-ups and reaching tight spaces.
Attachments and Accessories
The vacuum is easy to use with simple attachments and a straightforward dust bin emptying process.
Noise Level
The vacuum is fairly quiet, which is less disturbing for pets compared to other models.

The Shark Pet Cordless Stick Vacuum (model IX141) is designed to tackle pet hair and household messes efficiently, making it a solid choice for pet owners and those needing a lightweight vacuum for quick clean-ups. One of its standout features is the hypervelocity suction, which provides robust cleaning performance on both carpets and hard floors. With a respectable battery life of up to 40 minutes, you can cover a good amount of space before needing to recharge. The removable hand vacuum adds versatility, allowing you to reach above-floor areas easily, and the LED headlights help spot hidden dirt in darker corners.

Weighing just under 7 pounds, this vacuum is quite portable, especially when compared to traditional vacuums, making it easy to maneuver around furniture and tight spaces. The XL dust cup is another plus, offering a decent capacity of 0.34 quarts, and its CleanTouch Dirt Ejector feature simplifies disposal without mess.

However, there are a few drawbacks worth considering. The noise level is on the higher side at 80 dB, which might be bothersome in quieter settings. Additionally, while the vacuum is generally well-reviewed, some users have mentioned that it may not be powerful enough for larger homes or heavy-duty cleaning tasks. The 240-minute charging time may also be a bit long for those who prefer quicker recharges.

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,219
Suction Power
Battery Life
Weight

Most important from
33956 reviews

Suction Power
The suction power is impressive, especially on high mode, effectively picking up dirt, lint, and pet hair from carpets and mats.
Battery Life
Battery life is better than expected, even on high suction mode, making it suitable for multiple cleaning tasks before needing a recharge.
Weight
It's lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it convenient for quick clean-ups and reaching tight spaces.
Attachments and Accessories
The vacuum is easy to use with simple attachments and a straightforward dust bin emptying process.
Noise Level
The vacuum is fairly quiet, which is less disturbing for pets compared to other models.
#2

Dyson V11 Origin Cordless Vacuum, Nickel/Blue

Rating
9.4
Suction Power
Battery Life
Weight

Most important from
1509 reviews

Suction Power
Exceptional suction power surpasses traditional upright vacuums.
Battery Life
The vacuum's cordless feature and long run time are standout benefits.
Weight
Lightweight design makes it easy to use, even for those with back problems.
Dust Capacity
Emptying the dust canister could be improved, but it doesn't detract from overall performance.
Attachments and Accessories
Versatile functionality with multiple power levels and tools for different cleaning needs.

The Dyson V11 Origin Cordless Vacuum is an impressive choice for anyone looking for a powerful handheld vacuum. One of its standout features is its strong suction power, which is said to be 60% greater than previous models. This makes it effective for deep cleaning various floor types, including carpets and hard surfaces. Users can switch between three power modes: Auto for everyday tasks, Eco for longer battery life, and Boost for those tough spots that need extra power.

Battery life is also a highlight, offering up to 60 minutes of run time, which is quite generous for a cordless vacuum. However, keep in mind that using higher power settings will reduce this time. The LCD screen provides helpful information like power mode and remaining battery life, making it user-friendly. In terms of weight, at 6.6 pounds, it is relatively lightweight for a vacuum of its capabilities, making it easier to carry around the house. The dust capacity of 0.2 gallons is decent but may require frequent emptying for larger cleaning jobs.

This vacuum also excels in versatility; it converts easily into a handheld model, which is perfect for cleaning cars, stairs, and upholstery. Its included attachments, such as the Hair Screw Tool designed to tackle pet hair, further enhance its cleaning capabilities. The advanced HEPA filtration system is another plus, trapping 99.99% of particles for cleaner air expulsion. However, the noise level is rated at 70 dB, which could be a bit loud for some users, especially in quieter settings. The price point might be higher compared to other handheld vacuums, which could be a consideration for budget-conscious shoppers. Additionally, while the battery life is impressive, those who use the Boost mode frequently may find themselves needing to recharge sooner. The Dyson V11 Origin is an excellent option for those who need a robust, versatile vacuum for comprehensive cleaning but be prepared for the investment it requires.

Rating
9.4
Suction Power
Battery Life
Weight

Most important from
1509 reviews

Suction Power
Exceptional suction power surpasses traditional upright vacuums.
Battery Life
The vacuum's cordless feature and long run time are standout benefits.
Weight
Lightweight design makes it easy to use, even for those with back problems.
Dust Capacity
Emptying the dust canister could be improved, but it doesn't detract from overall performance.
Attachments and Accessories
Versatile functionality with multiple power levels and tools for different cleaning needs.
#3

Bissell Cleanview XR Pet 300W Cordless Vacuum with Removable Battery, 3797V

Rating
9.1
Suction Power
Weight
Dust Capacity

Most important from
110345 reviews

Suction Power
Powerful suction that surprises with the amount of dirt it picks up, even after one use.
Weight
Super lightweight and easy to use with a very small footprint when stored away.
Dust Capacity
The dirt cup is fairly decent in size and the filter is easy to wash and replace.
Attachments and Accessories
The detachable features and bagless functionality add to its convenience and ease of use.
Filter Type
The dirt cup is fairly decent in size and the filter is easy to wash and replace.

The Bissell Cleanview XR Pet handheld vacuum is designed with pet owners in mind, offering notable power and convenience. With a 300W motor, it boasts 60% more power than its Shark counterpart, ensuring robust suction for deep cleaning tasks. The vacuum is particularly effective for picking up pet hair from various surfaces like upholstery, stairs, and cars, thanks to its specialized fur brush attachment. Weighing 5.9 pounds, it's reasonably lightweight, making it easier to maneuver around the house.

The removable 24V MAX lithium-ion battery supports up to 40 minutes of runtime, providing sufficient time for most cleaning jobs without needing a recharge. This is ideal for those who prefer the freedom of cordless operation. The dust capacity is 0.3 liters, which is on the smaller side and may require frequent emptying during extensive cleaning sessions. The vacuum includes several useful attachments such as a dusting brush, crevice tool, and a wall mount for convenient storage.

The foam filter is straightforward to maintain but may not be as efficient at trapping fine particles as HEPA filters. BISSELL’s initiative to support homeless pets through purchases can be a compelling factor for pet lovers. This vacuum is best suited for pet owners looking for a powerful, cordless cleaning solution for various surfaces.

Rating
9.1
Suction Power
Weight
Dust Capacity

Most important from
110345 reviews

Suction Power
Powerful suction that surprises with the amount of dirt it picks up, even after one use.
Weight
Super lightweight and easy to use with a very small footprint when stored away.
Dust Capacity
The dirt cup is fairly decent in size and the filter is easy to wash and replace.
Attachments and Accessories
The detachable features and bagless functionality add to its convenience and ease of use.
Filter Type
The dirt cup is fairly decent in size and the filter is easy to wash and replace.

Buying Guide for the Best Handheld Vacuums

Choosing the right handheld vacuum can make a big difference in how effectively and efficiently you can clean your home, car, or any other space. Handheld vacuums are designed for quick clean-ups and are perfect for reaching tight spaces that larger vacuums can't. When selecting a handheld vacuum, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Here are the main specs to look at and how to navigate them.
Suction PowerSuction power is a measure of how effectively the vacuum can pick up dirt and debris. It's usually measured in air watts (AW) or volts (V). Higher suction power means better cleaning performance, especially on carpets and upholstery. For light cleaning tasks, a vacuum with lower suction power (around 15-20 AW) might suffice. For more demanding tasks, such as pet hair or deep cleaning, look for higher suction power (above 20 AW). Consider your cleaning needs and the types of surfaces you'll be cleaning to determine the right suction power for you.
Battery LifeBattery life indicates how long the vacuum can run on a single charge. This is crucial for cordless handheld vacuums. Battery life can range from 10 minutes to over 30 minutes. If you need the vacuum for quick, small tasks, a shorter battery life might be acceptable. However, for larger areas or more intensive cleaning sessions, look for a vacuum with a longer battery life. Consider how long you typically spend cleaning and choose a vacuum that can match or exceed that duration.
WeightThe weight of the handheld vacuum affects how easy it is to maneuver and use for extended periods. Lighter vacuums (under 3 pounds) are easier to handle and less tiring to use, making them ideal for quick clean-ups and reaching high or awkward spots. Heavier models (over 3 pounds) might offer more power or larger dust capacities but can be more cumbersome. Think about how and where you'll be using the vacuum and choose a weight that you can comfortably manage.
Dust CapacityDust capacity refers to the amount of dirt and debris the vacuum can hold before needing to be emptied. Smaller capacities (around 0.3 liters) are fine for quick, light clean-ups, while larger capacities (over 0.5 liters) are better for more extensive cleaning tasks. If you don't want to frequently stop to empty the dust container, opt for a vacuum with a larger capacity. Consider how often you clean and the amount of debris you typically collect to determine the right dust capacity for you.
Attachments and AccessoriesAttachments and accessories can enhance the versatility of your handheld vacuum. Common attachments include crevice tools for tight spaces, brush tools for upholstery, and motorized brushes for pet hair. The more attachments a vacuum has, the more versatile it will be. Think about the specific cleaning tasks you'll be performing and choose a vacuum with the appropriate attachments to meet those needs. If you have pets, for example, a motorized brush attachment can be very useful.
Filter TypeThe filter type affects the vacuum's ability to trap dust and allergens. HEPA filters are the most effective, capturing 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, making them ideal for allergy sufferers. Standard filters are less effective but may be sufficient for general cleaning. Consider your sensitivity to dust and allergens when choosing a filter type. If you or someone in your household has allergies, a vacuum with a HEPA filter is a better choice.
Noise LevelNoise level is an important consideration if you prefer a quieter cleaning experience. Noise levels are measured in decibels (dB), with lower numbers indicating quieter operation. Handheld vacuums typically range from 60 to 80 dB. If you are sensitive to noise or plan to use the vacuum in a noise-sensitive environment, look for models with lower noise levels. Consider where and when you'll be using the vacuum and choose a noise level that won't be disruptive.

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